Vidal Blanc

Grape Information

The great grape success story of Canada, Vidal Blanc is a hybrid bred from the crossing of the over productive and under flavored Ugni Blanc and an older hybrid, Rayon d'Or. Vidal Blanc, or Vidal 256, or just Vidal as it is also known, has a very tough and thick skin that helps it to survive in cold climates. Vidal Blanc can be found in versions with all levels of sweetness, but it is in the dessert and ice wines of Canada and the Great Lakes region that is has found fame. The grapes are literally picked frozen when the amount of water in the grape is low and the glycerin and sugar levels are concentrated. These wines can have an elegant mix of honey, wildflowers, stone fruits, peach syrup and just enough acidity to provide a delicate balance.